    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2004, Book III)]
    [December 3, 2004]
    [Pages 3037-3038]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks on the Nomination of Bernard B. Kerik To Be Secretary of Homeland Security
    December 3, 2004

        The President. Good morning. I'm proud to announce my nomination of
    Commissioner Bernard Kerik as the Secretary of Homeland Security.
        Bernie Kerik is one of the most accomplished and effective leaders
    of law enforcement in America. In his career, he has served as an
    enlisted military police officer in Korea, a jail warden in New Jersey,
    a beat cop in Manhattan, New York City corrections commissioner, and as
    New York's 40th police commissioner, an office once held by Teddy
    Roosevelt. In every position, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to
    justice, a heart for the innocent, and a record of great success.

        I'm grateful he's agreed to bring his lifetime of security
    experience and skill to one

    [[Page 3038]]

    of the most important positions in the Federal Government. Bernie is a
    dedicated, innovative reformer who insists on getting results. As the
    head of New York City jails, he cut inmate violence by more than 90
    percent. As Mayor Rudy Giuliani's police
    commissioner, he had great success in reducing crime in New York City.
    His broad, practical, hands-on experience makes Bernie superbly
    qualified to lead the Department of Homeland Security.
        When confirmed by the Senate, Bernie Kerik will build on the
    historic accomplishments of Secretary Tom Ridge.
    As the Department's first leader, Tom oversaw the large reorganization--
    the largest reorganization of the Government in nearly a half-century.
    He met urgent challenges with patience and purpose, and because of his
    service, our country is safer.
        Tom also carried out his duties with skill and
    honesty and decency. He's been my friend for more than 20 years. He is
    one of the great public servants of our generation. Tom Ridge has our
    Nation's gratitude; he's got my gratitude; and I wish he and
    Michele all the best.
        My nominee to succeed Secretary Ridge has the
    background and the passion that are needed to protect our citizens. As
    police commissioner on September the 11th, 2001, Bernie Kerik arrived at
    the World Trade Center minutes after the first plane hit. He was there
    when the Twin Towers collapsed. He knew the faces of the rescuers who
    rushed toward danger. He attended the funeral of the officers who didn't
    come back. Bernie Kerik understands the duties that came to America on
    September the 11th. The resolve he felt that morning will guide him
    every day on his job. And every first-responder defending our homeland
    will have a faithful ally in Bernie Kerik.
        As he prepares for new responsibility, Bernie Kerik has the love and
    support of his family, his wife, Hala; his
    children, Joseph, Celine, and Angelina and Lisa. He
    will always be inspired by his father and hero, Donald Kerik,
    Sr., and his caring stepmother,
    Clara. Bernard Kerik has devoted his life to
    protecting his fellow citizens, and his example has led many others to
    take up that calling. He loves his country. He has gained the trust and
    admiration of millions. I call on the Senate to promptly confirm his
    nomination as the Secretary of Homeland Security.
        Thank you for serving, Bernie, and congratulations.
        Secretary-designate Kerik. Mr. President, thank you.
        The President. Yes, sir.

    [At this point, Secretary-designate Kerik made brief remarks.]

        The President. Good job. Thank you, sir.

    Note: The President spoke at 9:54 a.m. in the Roosevelt Room at the
    White House. In his remarks, he referred to Rudolph W. Giuliani, former
    mayor of New York City; and Michele Ridge, wife of Homeland Security
    Secretary Tom Ridge. The transcript released by the Office of the Press
    Secretary also included the remarks of Secretary-designate Kerik.